Teenager Responsible for Target Beating Pleads Guilty

DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – The teenager accused of beating a Dallas theater director in the parking lot of an uptown target earlier this year, has pleaded guilty.

Dallas County District Attorney Faith Johnson says 17-year-old Zantrell Sauls was indicted on one count of Aggravated Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury and one count of Robbery stemming from the January 14 attack on 33-year-old Derek Whitener.
“We worked diligently and closely with the victim in this case for this outcome,” said DA Johnson. “His wishes to make sure that Zantrell Sauls received and equitable punishment for his involvement and something comparable to the other defendant in this case.”

Sauls was sentenced to 10 years deferred adjudication with 4 months of jail time as a condition. Whitener, who spent weeks in the hospital and still suffers from a head injury, has since filed a lawsuit against the retail giant.

DA Johnson said Whitener is focused on his recovery and putting the crime behind him.

“We want young adults who may be considering criminal behavior to know that probation does not mean you are beyond the eyes of the law,” said Johnson. “Because of Zantrell Sauls’ actions, for the next 10 years, he will be closely monitored by the court. It is up to him to choose the right path.”